Dementia-related illnesses impact the mind and affect virtually every aspect of a person’s life, including making many facets of daily living more difficult. Most residences are not built with the needs of an individual living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia-related illnesses in mind. However, almost every part of a residence can impact quality of life for someone living with a dementia-related illness and their family care partners. Even seemingly-cosmetic choices, such as wall colors, furniture patterns, and dishware, make a difference.

Are you caregiving for a loved one with dementia? Does your loved one share a residence with you? If you answered yes to both of these questions, you most likely worry about your loved one’s safety, especially when he or she is alone at home. You may even feel as though you can never leave your loved one unsupervised which is a difficult task to balance in the throes of busy, everyday life. I am interested in providing solutions to enable individuals to remain living in their homes as they age for as long as possible.

While everyone is at risk during a natural weather-related disaster or similar emergency, older adults can be especially vulnerable during these challenging times. Being prepared in advance can literally mean the difference between survival and death, particularly for those who may have special medical or mobility needs. Read on to learn more about safety planning steps to consider now, whether you plan to remain at home or be evacuated in the event of an emergency.

Decreased mobility and declining health are unfortunate effects of the aging process, and the factors listed below should be kept in mind when considering how to modify your house for yourself or a loved one...

Appropriate use of assistive devices can prevent harmful falls. These devices may include canes, walkers, and reachers. A physical or occupational therapist can help you decide which devices might be helpful and teach you how to use them safely.

If safety measures are in place, an individual living with Alzheimer’s can live in the comfort of his or her own home or a caregiver’s residence. As the disease progresses, the person’s abilities will change. But with some creativity and flexibility, the home can be adapted to support these changes.

The Alzheimer's Association Safe Return® is a nationwide identification, support and enrollment program that provides assistance when a person with dementia wanders and becomes lost. If an enrollee is missing, one call immediately activates a community support network.

Emergency situations — such as tornadoes, hurricanes, heat waves, fires and blizzards — can significantly impact safety, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia, who may find them distressing and confusing. Being prepared is crucial. However, if you find yourself in extreme weather or a natural disaster, there are still actions you can take to keep you and the person living with dementia as safe as possible.

Diabetes makes it harder for your body to handle high heat and humidity. Changes in medication and what you eat and drink may need to be made when temperatures rise. During emergencies and natural disasters such as hurricanes or tornadoes, you may have other needs related to diabetes.

Family caregivers have a lot to think about when it comes to keeping their loved ones safe and secure, especially in an emergency. Whether it’s an extreme weather situation or unexpected disaster, we’re all aware of how emergencies can turn life upside down in an instant.

Family caregivers have a lot to think about when it comes to keeping their loved ones safe and secure, especially in an emergency. Whether it’s an extreme weather situation or unexpected disaster, we’re all aware of how emergencies can turn life upside down in an instant.  Infographic here.

Falls can have very serious consequences as we age. Each year, more than 25 percent of adults 65 or older have a fall, and 3 million are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.